Common Lilac

A deciduous shrub which grows into a bushy thicket of around 7 x 7m and has green heart-shaped leaves. The light blue-purple flowers are very sweet-smelling in early summer. The intensely sweet fragrance and nectar-rich blossoms act as a massive magnet for bees, butterflies, hawkmoths, and hoverflies.

Primarily prized for ornamental landscaping, pollinator support, and its distinct floral fragrance used in perfumery. Its edible flowers are also popular in culinary recipes—like infused syrups, sugars, and jellies—and serve as a traditional ingredient for soothing skin toners. 

Parts of the plant yield green and brown dyes from leaves, or yellow-orange dyes from twigs.